Hip resurfacing has been a popular alternative medicine therapy to hip replacement in Europe for years, but it is still a fairly new alternative medicine treatment in the United States. As a matter of fact, the FDA just approved the first hip resurfacing system less than 2 years ago.
So, how do you know if you’re a good candidate for an alternative medicine treatment like hip resurfacing?
The benefit of opting for hip resurfacing in lieu of hip replacement is that hip resurfacing doesn’t require the “ball” of the hip to be removed and replaced. Instead, the hip “ball” is reshaped and capped with metal, and the hip socket is fitted with a metal prosthesis.
Another benefit to hip resurfacing is the capped metal hip “ball” is bigger than the one used in hip replacements, so you have less risk of dislocating your hip in the future.
But what about the risks?
Well, as with most treatments, certain people are not good candidates for this type of alternative medicine treatment. Hip resurfacing isn’t recommended for people with osteoporosis because of the greater risk of fracturing the hip bone.
Another concern is that the metal parts used in hip resurfacing may cause small metal particles to be absorbed into your bloodstream.
This could be a problem if you have a metal allergy, or if you have a kidney dysfunction or diabetes because these metals are eliminated by your kidneys.
Don’t forget, it’s important to make sure you discuss hip resurfacing as an alternative medicine treatment to hip replacement with your specialist.
And don’t forget to join me this week as we continue to discuss alternative medicine treatments for hip replacement.
Steps to Improve Your Health
Dr. Steven Dell
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